http://www.azstarnet.com/public/dnews/ld0447.html

Yavapai cop agencies $1.6 million richer

PRESCOTT (AP) Area law enforcement agencies are the beneficiaries of
$1.6 million in what's believed to be drug proceeds seized from people
trying to launder it.

Superior Court Judge Richard Anderson of Yavapai County signed an order
Sept. 11 turning over the money and a number of items to the Prescott
Area Task Force's antiracketeering account.

In July, a domestic dispute at a Sedona motel led to the task force's
seizure of three suitcases filled with $20, $50 and $100 bills.

Officers also seized a fourwheel drive pickup valued at $25,000, an
older vehicle, two handguns, a television and VCR, a camera, a barbecue
grill, and binoculars all believed to have been purchased with drug
proceeds.

Authorities arrested Johnny Babb, 56, of Spartenburg, S.C., and Raymond
Howard, 39, and Amellia Shell, 33, both of Inman, S.C.

Sgt. John Cometh, a member of the task force, said all three pleaded
guilty Babb and Howard to money laundering, and Shell to possession
of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. They are awaiting sentencing.

No one has come forward to claim any of the money or possessions,
Cometh said.

It's too early to say what the money will be used for, Cometh said. The
committee that oversees the task force, which is made up of law
enforcement agencies around the county, is expected to consider the
matter next month.